Downgrading Windows Server 2012 R2 to WS 2012
Solution 1:
Where can I get installation sources for Windows Server 2012 that will allow activation with a commercial key?
From your Microsoft Volume License Portal - likely the same place that you got the 2012 R2 ISO and key. They're two different ISOs and keys. After all, they're two different operating systems.
Solution 2:
OK, being somewhat pressed for time I have decided to call Microsoft support and ask them directly.
Yes, it is possible to downgrade Windows Server 2012 R2 to Windows Server 2012 but to do this I need an installation medium for WS 2012 and a license key. Yes, it's not enough for me to own a WS 2012 R2 license key, I need a target system's (the one to which I'm going to downgrade) license key.
The procedure, according to MS consultant, is as follows:
- Install the target system (Windows Server 2012 in my case).
- Activate the system with its own license key (again, WS 2012 license).
- Call Microsoft Support on the phone to inform them about the downgrade.
- Your 'source' system (WS 2012 R2 in my case) is the proof of you using the system legally.
What if I own neither an installation medium nor a license key for the target system? Well, I should take a look around and try to borrow them from someone (yes, this is what I heard from the MS consultant). Come again?
The evaluation version does not help either, since it only provides the installation medium, not the license key and would still need activation with a WS 2012 key. Oh, well, case closed, I guess.